Age Does Not Predict Outcome: Observation and Surgical Management of Rathke's Cleft Cysts in Older Adults

Journal of Neurological Surgery Part B Skull Base 2026

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Authors: Abhinav Kareddy, Zain Peeran, Poojan D. Shukla, Robert C. Osorio, Akhil Rajidi, Aarav Badani, Aymen Kabir, Abraham Dada, Rithvik Ramesh, Sandeep Kunwar, Manish Kumar Aghi
DOI: 10.1055/s-0046-1819270
Cited by: 0

Abstract

Introduction: Rathke’s cleft cysts (RCCs) are increasingly identified in elderly patients, often incidentally. Although benign, management decisions are frequently influenced by age, with concerns about frailty and surgical risk leading to more conservative approaches. Unlike other sellar lesions, RCCs differ in biology and surgical complexity. We examined how age impacts presentation, management patterns, and outcomes in a large, stratified cohort, challenging the assumption that advanced age should alter treatment strategy. Methods: We retrospectively reviewed 544 RCC patients treated at a single center (2000–2024). Patients were stratified by age (

Fields of Study & Subjects

Pituitary Gland Disorders and Treatments Head and Neck Surgical Oncology Meningioma and schwannoma management

Publication details

Journal / source
Journal of Neurological Surgery Part B Skull Base
Volume
87
Issue
S 01
Pages
S1–S548
Publication date
27 February 2026
Language
EN